I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 8 with Changing Lines 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 to Hexagram 50

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 8.2.3.4.5.6 -> 50

8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)

Trigrams

Above
☵ Kǎn (Water)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 8

Hexagram 比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.

Hexagram 8 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"比,吉。原筮,元永贞,无咎。不宁方来,后夫凶。"
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune.”

This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.

Hexagram 8 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"水上有地,比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
English Translation:
“There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends.”

The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"比之自内,贞吉。"
(Bǐ zhī zì nèi, zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“Holding together with those within brings good fortune.”

This line advises strengthening relationships with those closest to you, whether family, friends, or colleagues. Unity within your inner circle brings security and good fortune.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"比之匪人。"
(Bǐ zhī fěi rén.)
English Translation:
“Holding together with the wrong people.”

This line warns against uniting with people who are dishonest or untrustworthy. Associating with the wrong people can lead to trouble. Choose your allies wisely.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"外比之,贞吉。"
(Wài bǐ zhī, zhēn jí.)
English Translation:
“Holding together with those outside. Perseverance brings good fortune.”

This line encourages forming alliances outside of your usual circle. Expanding your network and collaborating with others who may be outside your immediate group can lead to success.

Line 5 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"显比,王用三驱,失前禽,邑人不诫,吉。"
(Xiǎn bǐ, wáng yòng sān qū, shī qián qín, yì rén bù jiè, jí.)
English Translation:
“The leader holds together openly. The king uses three hunts, but loses the game. The people of the city do not reproach him. Good fortune.”

This line speaks of a leader who holds the group together openly and fairly. Even if some opportunities are lost, the people do not criticize, as they trust the leader’s integrity. In the end, good fortune follows from unity and trust.

Line 6 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"比之无首,凶。"
(Bǐ zhī wú shǒu, xiōng.)
English Translation:
“Holding together without a leader brings misfortune.”

This line warns that a group without a clear leader or direction is bound for failure. Strong leadership is essential for unity and success. Without it, the group will face misfortune.

Changing to:

50. The Cauldron (鼎 Dǐng)

Trigrams

Above
☲ Lí (Fire)
Below
☴ Xùn (Wind)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 50

Hexagram 鼎 (Dǐng) represents a cauldron, symbolizing nourishment and transformation. This hexagram speaks of a time when one’s resources and abilities are being refined and used to nourish and support others. Success comes from utilizing what is in the cauldron and making something valuable.

Hexagram 50 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"鼎,元吉,亨。"
(Dǐng, yuán jí, hēng.)
English Translation:
“The Cauldron. Great good fortune. Success.”

This hexagram advises a time of great transformation and nourishment. Like a cauldron cooking food, one’s resources and abilities are being refined to create something valuable. Success comes from sharing this nourishment with others.

Hexagram 50 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"木上有火,鼎。君子以正位凝命。"
(Mù shàng yǒu huǒ, dǐng. Jūn zǐ yǐ zhèng wèi níng mìng.)
English Translation:
“Fire over wood: The image of The Cauldron. The superior person makes their position correct and consolidates their destiny.”

The image of fire over wood represents the process of cooking and transforming raw ingredients into something nourishing. The superior person, like the cauldron, uses their resources and position to create something lasting and valuable.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team